Implementation strategies for "Equation Guru": A user friendly intelligent algebra tutor

Abstract

We describe the implementation strategies of an intelligent algebra tutor, the "Equation Guru" (EG), which is designed to help students learn the concepts of equation solving with one unknown. EG provides a highly interactive and entertaining learning environment through the use of Microsoft Agents. It consists of two main parts. The first is the "Tutorial" part where students are guided through the steps of solving equations with one unknown. The second, "Drill and Practice" part gives them a chance to practice their skills in equation solving. In this part, equations are automatically generated by EG, and presented to the student. EG monitors the student's performance and adjusts the difficulty level of the equations accordingly.